Ever stood in the snaking queue at Malta International Airport, eyeing the intimidating security scanners, and wondered, “Are these things safe?” You’re not alone. The myth that airport security scanners emit harmful radiation has been circulating for years. Let’s separate fact from fiction and put your mind at ease.

Airport security scanners, like the ones you’d find at Malta’s MIA, use non-ionizing radiation. That’s a fancy way of saying they emit low-energy photons, which are far less powerful than the ionizing radiation used in medical X-rays. In fact, the energy level is so low that these scanners are incapable of causing any biological damage.

To understand why, consider this: the energy levels of non-ionizing radiation are so low that they can’t even ionize atoms. This means they can’t cause the damage that ionizing radiation, like X-rays or gamma rays, can. So, you can breathe easy knowing that the scanner won’t leave you with any lingering effects.

There are two main types of airport security scanners used worldwide: millimeter wave and backscatter X-ray. Both are safe and effective at detecting hidden threats. Let’s take a quick look at each:

• Millimeter Wave Scanners: These use non-ionizing radio waves to create a 3D image of your body. They’re similar to the technology used in self-driving cars and radar systems. They’re safe, as they don’t emit any ionizing radiation.
• Backscatter X-Ray Scanners: These use low-energy X-rays to create an image. While they do use X-rays, the energy level is so low that the radiation dose is equivalent to about 10 minutes of natural background radiation. In other words, it’s negligible.

While the health risks of airport security scanners are minimal, privacy concerns are valid. Some scanners, like the millimeter wave type, create detailed 3D images that can reveal intimate body contours. However, many airports, including MIA, use software to automatically blur these images, preserving your privacy.

If you’re still uncomfortable, you can opt for a pat-down inspection instead. Just inform the security officer, and they’ll accommodate your request.

Airport security scanners are a crucial part of keeping our skies safe. They’re also safe for us passengers, emitting low levels of non-ionizing radiation that pose no health risks. So, the next time you’re at MIA, step into the scanner with confidence, knowing that it’s a vital tool for ensuring a smooth and secure journey.

“The scanner is just another tool in our arsenal to keep passengers and aircraft safe,” says a spokesperson for Malta International Airport. “We understand that it might seem intimidating, but it’s a necessary part of modern air travel.”